New wing of Commemorative Air Force takes off

The newest wing of the Commemorative Air Force is now operating at New Hampshire’s Hampton Airfield (7B3).

While new, the New England Wing of the Commemorative Air Force has achieved a lot in its short life, according to officials, including meeting all the requirements to have an aircraft assigned to the wing — a Fairchild PT-23 Primary Trainer.

The open cockpit two seater started pilots’ transition from the venerable Stearman biplanes to a more “fighter like” low wing monoplane, wing officials noted.

The PT-23 is the radial engine equipped version of the PT-19 inline engine equipped aircraft, two seats in a tandem open cockpit, what wing officials call “grass roots flying at its best.”

The aircraft resides in a hangar at Hampton Airfield, where the wing meets monthly. In 2023, the wing will be taking the aircraft to airports around New England, where members will continue the Commemorative Air Force’s missions of preserving living history and aerospace education, as well as providing rides to the public, officials said.

The New England Wing is looking for new members. There are a variety of opportunities available, officials said, noting you don’t have to be a pilot or mechanic, “though as a full member you will have the chance to work on and ride in the wing’s aircraft.”

“No special skills required, just bring your love of historic aircraft and willing hands,” officials add.

Find out more on the wing’s Facebook page, on Instagram, or contact the wing directly at [email protected].